UMS works with villagers on conservation of mangrove forests

KOTA KINABALU: Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is working with grassroots to create awareness among villagers on the importance of protecting mangrove forest ecosystems.

The academics are on the ground to create awareness through Service Learning Malaysia's (SULAM) "Future Youth, Future Proof" programme to increase awareness among the people.

A programme was recently conducted at Kampung Serbang in Sabah's southwestern Bongowan on the importance of conservation that could help the kampung folks tap into eco-tourism potential.

UMS FYFP coordinator Dr. Rosmalina Abdul Rashid said that the programme organised by UMS's Faculty of Tropical Forestry (FPT), aimed to increase community awareness of the mangrove ecosystem which is the heart of the eco-tourism products found in the village.

"It is very important to take care of the mangrove ecosystem along the Bongawan River to ensure the sustainability of its natural resources.

"This is because the mangrove forest is a habitat for various insects and wildlife such as fireflies, Proboscis monkeys as well as reptiles like crocodiles," she said.

She said that some 20 community members involved in developing eco-tourism products in the village had jointly organised the programme.

"Among the activities held was the planting of 120 mangrove saplings as a result of donations from the Sabah Forestry Department," Rosmalina added.

She hoped that the community as well as the students involved would benefit from the programme that provided inputs for the conservation of natural resources.

"This programme will also have a positive impact on the students to understand and deepen the need to help the local community in matters related to forestry and eco-tourism," she added.

A total of 55 UMS eco-tourism students participated in the course with the local community. The program was launched by Sabah Forestry Department regional forest officer Mohd Nasir Ag. Suman.